Crime NewsUpdate

GALLERY: War zone in Rosettenville

Three streets were barricaded by protesters with burning tyres.

February 7, 2018

Gopolang Chawane 1 minute read

TENSIONS rose as Rosettenville resident’s torched tyres – blocking entry to a shopping mall – in demanding an end to the crime in the area.

Over 100 residents took to the streets around the Rosettenville Junction Shopping centre to demand that the centre closed because of the alleged crime rate inside the centre.

Read: Rosettenville complex closed after protests

The protesters’ spokesperson, Simphiwe Hlafa, said there were a number of issues that residents demanded attention be given to.

“Crime is rife in the area. Banks have left the centre and an officer was killed around the centre.”

BURNING STATEMENT: Tyres were set alight around the Rosettenville Junction shopping centre.

Hlafa said the residents were tired of their concerns not being addressed.

He said there were issues with the roof to the parking bay, which may collapse at any given point.

Ward 56 councillor Michael Crichton who reacted to the mass riot on Saturday morning by going to the scene said he heard the community’s concerns and would consult with police and the community to react on the matter.

ADDRESS: Protesters huddle following tyres being burnt around the Rosettenville Junction Centre. Photo: Gopolang Chawane

We need to work together he said.

Police was on high alert as a robust crowd chanted, demanding the attention of the Rosettenville Junction caretakers.

The Rosettenville Junction centre caretakers could not be located on the weekend.

AFTERMATH: Debris following the protest by over 100 residents.

Police said they would work with the community in ensuring their grievances were addressed. The consensus by midday was that the community leaders and police would meet with the caretakers of the Rosettenville Junction to work on a way forward.

BURNING ISSUE: Torched tyres on the doorstep of the Rosettenville Junction.

Residents told the COURIER that the elderly were falling victim to criminals. One of the protesters said she too was a victim and was robbed at the centre.

The COURIER is in the process of contacting the Rosettenville Junction for their response.